Architectural designers are trained to deal with spatial and structural questions, especially concerning site selection and environmental considerations. Design and building professionals have learned from their experiences. We know what works and what does not work functionally, aesthetically and financially. Our expertise can keep you from making costly mistakes because we have been through them hundreds of times. The process you are going through may be only your first or second time.
If you live in west of the Mississippi, your property may be in a historical district, governed by hillside ordinances or located in a flood plain. Site assessment and planning can be very expensive and time consuming. think will know the requirements and procedures for you to begin building. We also have more access to; and knowledge of, products available in the marketplace.
Whether it's green building, outfitting your closet with the storage system, fighting mold or investing in the best quality flooring for your money, think can help you make wise product choices that will suit your needs. If you have a vague idea of what you want your new home to look like, but aren't sure of all the details, we can help you to clarify the vision and fit the budget you have available.
HOW DO I FIND A PRO? Contact Us! We can walk you through it!
Ask neighbors, friends, co-workers, and architects and builders you trust whom they would recommend. A custom builder may recommend local designers with whom they've worked.
Ask for and review the professional's entire portfolio--not just one project. Ask for and check out references and professional affiliations. Call the Better Business Bureau to check for any complaints.
Ask questions about the fee structure. Is there an hourly rate or an overall design fee that covers the entire project? Is a retainer required upon signing the contract? Negotiate a payment schedule that serves you both.
It is important that you choose someone you can talk to and not feel intimidated by, and someone whose opinion you will respect. We are not in business to build and design what we want, but are hired by you to realize
your vision. We are here to make your vision a reality.
HOW DO I PREPARE? Contact Us! We can walk you through it!
Ask plenty of questions along the way--it's up to you to know what's going on every step of the way. Clear and constant communication is crucial. To make the most of this opportunity, you need to prepare as best as you can for your collaboration with us. Here are some ways to prepare:
Collect examples of what you like
and what you don't like from home design magazines, newspapers and other sources. Tour showhomes and models. Draw on your preferences in colors and style of artwork to establish your home's style.
think about how you currently use your rooms and write down what you would like to see changed. Note any problems. Is there too little storage? Not enough natural light?
List what features you'd like to have and don't have now, and then prioritize so we know what you'd like most to discuss possibilities and affordability.
Be flexible. Be open to substitutions and ideas we offer that might achieve your goal in a better way than you had originally imagined, but don't feel rushed or bullied into a house plan or style that isn't yours.
Put function first. No matter how wonderful a fixture or feature looks, it if isn't useful, you'll eventually be unhappy with it. Think about traffic patterns, storage and lighting. Will you really use a whirlpool? Do you need a snack bar and a breakfast eating area?
Designing your home is a valuable and rewarding experience.
Make it your own!
We can walk you through it!